Boeing’s Troubles Likely Signal Systemic Problems in High-Value US Manufacturing

Commentary It would be hard to imagine any company requiring higher quality standards than Boeing, the once iconic aircraft manufacturer. Failure in its line of business is simply not acceptable.  But Boeing has suffered a number of quality failures, most recently on Jan. 5, when the door plug of a Boeing 737 Max 9 gave way at 16,300 feet as an Alaska Airlines flight was in its ascent. The aircraft experienced—but not explosive—decompression. Nobody was killed (nobody was sitting next to the door plug), although some were injured. Headrests were torn from nearby seats, and seat assemblies were reportedly twisted. The aircraft landed safely after declaring an emergency.   ...